by Our Correspondent in Doha
Iran has launched a wave of Shahed-136 drones toward Israel in direct retaliation for a series of Israeli airstrikes earlier today that reportedly killed several senior Iranian military commanders, nuclear scientists, and a number of unarmed civilians.
Israeli sources confirm that approximately 200 Iranian drones have been deployed, traveling over Iraq and Syria en route to Israeli territory. The drones, widely recognized for their use in asymmetric warfare, are part of what Iranian sources describe as a “symbolic but strategic” response meant to signal Iran’s ability and willingness to respond to targeted assassinations.
Defense analysts suggest the primary objective of the drone assault is to saturate Israeli air defenses and hinder air operations, rather than deliver mass destruction. “It’s a deliberate tactic — keep Israeli aircraft grounded and engaged, reducing their operational flexibility,” one regional military expert noted.
In response, American, Israeli, and British fighter jets have scrambled across Syrian and Iraqi airspace to intercept the incoming drones. In a notable diplomatic move, Jordan has opened its airspace to Israeli aircraft, allowing them to engage more effectively in defensive operations.
The situation comes amid heightened tensions following this morning’s Israeli strikes, which targeted facilities and personnel linked to Iran’s nuclear and military programs. Iranian state-affiliated media has condemned the attacks as “acts of terrorism,” while Israeli officials have maintained they were necessary to counter imminent threats.
As the drones continue their course, air defense systems across Israel remain on high alert. The extent of any damage or casualties remains unclear at this hour.
